Estimator

Description

Midwest Web, Inc

Estimator Job Description

Job Title: Estimator

Department: Production Planning

Reports To: Vice President of Operations

In-Office Position

About MWI Direct

MWI Direct is a national direct mail production company based in Lincoln, Nebraska. We specialize in high-quality, high-volume digital print and direct mail marketing solutions for clients across multiple industries. Our production environment utilizes Canon ProStream continuous-feed inkjet presses, Canon sheetfed digital presses, and multiple MBO finishing lines to deliver personalized direct mail campaigns efficiently and accurately. MWI Direct offers the stability of an established organization while maintaining the agility and collaboration of a mid-sized company. Our team works closely together to deliver reliable production, exceptional quality, and strong customer outcomes.

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to join our team with strong growth potential. This position is ideal for an early-career professional who is eager to learn and build a career in the direct mail industry.

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and competitive quotes for direct mail projects, including printing, inserting, mailing, and fulfillment. This role requires strong attention to detail, solid computer skills, and clear communication with both internal teams and customers. You will work closely with sales, production, and operations to ensure jobs are quoted accurately and profitably.

We are looking for someone who is motivated, coachable, and eager to learn. The right candidate will receive hands-on training to develop their skills and grow within the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review job specifications, sales orders, and artwork to prepare accurate cost estimates 
• Calculate production costs including materials, labor, postage, finishing, and outsourced services 
• Prepare and communicate clear, timely quotes; revise as job details change 
• Apply current USPS regulations and postage rates to mailing estimates 
• Maintain accurate records of estimates and job history in the MIS system 
• Use Excel to support pricing models, templates, and cost analysis 
• Compare estimated vs. actual costs to support job profitability reviews 
• Collaborate with sales, production, and operations to confirm scope, costs, and feasibility 
• Communicate quote status, timelines, and pricing details to internal teams 
• Respond promptly to estimate-related questions from staff and customers 
• Monitor material, postage, and vendor cost changes and update pricing as needed 
• Identify opportunities to improve estimating processes and efficiency
• Serve as backup to Purchasing by assisting with vendor quotes, placing orders, and tracking deliveries

Required Skills and Abilities

• Prior experience in estimating, cost analysis, pricing, purchasing or production planning is preferred but not required 
• Experience in direct mail, printing, or a manufacturing environment is a plus 
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including working with formulas and spreadsheets 
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook for communication and documentation 
• Ability to learn and use EPS Monarch MIS software (training provided) 
• Ability to manage multiple quotes and deadlines at once
• High attention to detail with accurate data entry skills

Education

• Associate’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Accounting or Finance or related field preferred, or 
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Accounting or Finance or related field preferred, or
• Candidates nearing completion of a degree will be considered
• Relevant coursework, experience or strong skills will also be considered

Work Environment

This is primarily an office-based, sedentary role. The employee will regularly use a computer, phone, and standard office equipment. Occasional walking through the production facility may be required to observe job processes or consult with production staff. The noise level is generally quiet in the office environment.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time, in-office position. Some flexibility in hours may be available; however, the employee must be present during core business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.